Borough President Diaz will provide Bronx libraries with $640,000 in capital funding through his FY2020 budget.“Our libraries are an important resource for learning and community building, and I have always been proud to support our public library system through my capital budget,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “The New York Public Library provides critical services for New Yorkers of all ages, and these allocations will help our borough’s libraries grow and thrive.”
“The people of the Bronx need their libraries: safe, welcoming spaces where all people can access free books, programs, classes, and more. We are so grateful to Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., a true champion of the borough’s libraries who has invested substantial funding to ensure our branches are the best they can be. He understands the importance of libraries in strengthening the communities and residents of the Bronx, and we appreciate the opportunity to strengthen our footprint,” said New York Public Library Chief Operating Officer Iris Weinshall.
This year, Borough President Diaz will provide $500,000 towards the renovation of the Hunts Point Branch Library, which includes new furniture and fixtures. Additionally, the Borough President has allocated $40,000 towards a new roof, drains and HVAC system at the Clason’s Point Library branch.
The Borough President has also allocated $100,000 to complete the new Van Cortlandt Branch Library, which officially opened to the public earlier this month. In total, Borough President Diaz provided that project with $600,000 in capital funding.
Borough President Diaz has allocated $9,685,000 towards 21 New York Public Library projects since taking office in 2009.
This year, Borough President Diaz’s office has provided $31,477,000 in total capital dollars to 101 different projects. Since coming to office in 2009, Borough President Diaz has provided $303,374,000 in total capital funding to 905 projects.
CAPTION: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. discusses his love of the New York Public Library with Patience, the library’s mascot, at the opening of the Van Cortlandt Branch Library on Monday, July 15, 2019. Download the photo at https://flic.kr/p/2gHenca.